Role of the Executive Director


The Executive Director reports to and works in close partnership with the Board of Directors to establish and clarify vision, mission, organizational goals, policies, and strategic directions in order to grow a prosperous, professional and ethical industry that is respected and recognized by all stakeholders for the contribution that the industry makes in enhancing quality of life. The Executive Director is primarily responsible for the organization's consistent achievement of its mission and financial objectives.

Essential Functions

• Advising and supporting the Board of Directors in its various roles, especially in formulating strategic directions and organizational plans, and developing and interpreting policy;

• Coordinating the strategic planning process and developing and managing an annual operating plan and budget to advance the organization's mission and goals.

• Working with the Board to prioritize items in the strategic plan on an annual basis and renew the plan as goals are accomplished.

• Coordinating the development of programs and services that generate greater awareness and stimulate demand for the products and services of the Horticultural industry;

• Coordinating the development of programs that enhance the quantity and quality of future labour sources by working with all levels of the educational system.

• Developing and implementing a human resources plan that ensures a healthy work environment, the development of staff and volunteers, and the successful management of the organization;

• Managing and allocating appropriate staff resources to accomplish the annual priorities set by the board;

• Maintaining and enhancing a positive relationship with all sectors of the horticultural industry including LO members, related associations, all levels of governments and horticultural educators;

• Securing new sources of revenue for the organization, and ensuring effective management of financial resources;

• Working with the Board and members to identify and develop future industry leaders that will provide ongoing stewardship of the organization;

• Developing and implementing effective systems of management and communication throughout the organization;

• Increasing the profile of Landscape Ontario through development and implementation of effective marketing, public relations, government relations and media relations strategies that support the ongoing work of the organization;

• Act as chief staff spokesperson with media, government agencies, community groups, and other relevant publics;

• Work with the Board and members to ensure that an effective Government Relations and Lobbying plan is developed and executed;

• Work with the Board and members to identify threats and opportunities to industry development;

• Work as a coordinator and facilitator to ensure that sector groups, chapter and committee activities are aligned with board priorities and specific issues are dealt with through the appropriate governance structure;

• Maintain official records and documents, and ensure compliance with federal, provincial and local regulations;

• Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the field;

• Jointly with the Board of Directors, serve as an advocate, liaison and representative for Landscape Ontario;

• Provide leadership in developing program, organizational and financial plans with the Board of Directors and staff, and carry out plans and policies authorized by the board;

• Promote active and broad participation by volunteers in all areas of the organization's work.


Specific Responsibility

A. Communications

The Executive Director will:

• See that the board is kept fully informed on the condition of the organization and all important factors influencing it;

• Ensure that the activities programs and goals of Landscape Ontario are communicated and publicized to the appropriate stakeholders (members, potential members, staff, government, public etc.).

• Establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with all stakeholders;

• Represent the programs, policies and positions of Landscape Ontario to agencies, organizations, and the general public.


B. Staff Relations

• Be responsible for the recruitment, employment, and release of all personnel;

• Ensure that job descriptions are developed, that regular performance evaluations are held, and that principled and ethical human resource practices are in place;

• Oversee an effective management team, with appropriate provision for succession;

• Encourage staff and volunteer development and education, and assist staff in relating their specialized work to the total program of the organization;

• Maintain a climate which attracts and motivates a diverse staff of top quality people;

• Encourage leadership and professional development in all staff and maintain a culture of mutual improvement.


C. Budget and Finance

• Be responsible for developing and maintaining sound financial practices;

• Work with the staff, Finance Committee, and the board in preparing a budget and ensure that the organization operates within budget guidelines;

• Ensure that adequate funds are available to permit the organization to carry out its work;

• Jointly, with the president, treasurer and designated officers conduct official correspondence of the organization and execute legal documents.


D. Government Relations

• Develop strong relationships with all Government Departments and politicians that have an influence on the growth and development of the horticultural industry;

• Work with the Board and Governance of Landscape Ontario to develop and coordinate government relations activities that will enhance and protect the horticultural industry;

• Act as an industry spokesperson and advocate.

E. Member Relations

• Provide exemplary service to the membership by acting as an information conduit to the personal and professional development benefits available through participation in Landscape Ontario activities;

• Act as an advocate and advisor to assist members with their specific business, human resources, legal, and government and labour issues;

• Identify potential industry leaders and encourage participation in the various governance roles available in Landscape Ontario;

• Provide guidance for membership access to the full services available at the association;

• Monitor membership views and filter out common themes, issues, threats, opportunities, strengths and weaknesses so that appropriate strategic actions can be implemented;

• Assist our members in developing prosperous, professional and ethical businesses.

F. Public Relations

• Act as an industry representative, advocate and liaison to the various stakeholders affecting our membership including the general public, youth, property managers and owners and media;

• Encourage activities that raise awareness for the economic, environmental and lifestyle benefits of horticulture;

• Promote the value of utilizing Landscape Ontario members.